Designer Handbags by Nancy Zieman and Eileen Roche

If your sewing skills are holding you back from tackling complex projects, you might be interested in seeing how an embroidery machine can simplify complicated sewing tasks. How? The tough/challenging/persnickety steps are handled by digital files completely eliminating the need for top-notch sewing skills. You’ll be amazed to see how easy it is to duplicate four corner accents; how the embroidery machine ensures both straps are attached at the same location and how two fabric rectangles are all you need to make a great-looking handbag.

Did I get your attention? Nancy Zieman and I are happy to share the steps with you. In fact, you can watch on your computer by clicking here, www.nancyzieman.com. Click on the EMBROIDERY link. On Dec. 4, 2011 you’ll see the latest episode of Sewing with Nancy, featuring this hot new technique. Nancy and I joined forces to simplify one of our favorite sewing projects – making handbags. Next week, on Dec. 11, 2011, you can watch the second episode of the two-part series. Of course, feel free to check your local PBS channel listing for the airing of Sewing with Nancy.

Ever wonder how these television shows happen? Well, usually it starts with a phone call from Nancy, followed by an enthusiastic YES! by me. Then after the glow fades, it’s time to get to work, to define the tasks, buy the fabrics, make the samples, dissect the steps, make more samples, throw out some samples, make more samples and regret you threw anything out! Of course, all of this happens with 1100 miles separating us.

We depend on email, telephone calls and some unsophisticated photography to relay visions back and forth. Here’s an early shot of the results of one of my early fabric buying trips.

Then it’s time for me to head to Beaver Dam, WI, home of the sewing world’s top television star, Nancy Zieman. What do I do when I arrive? Basically, I implode in the conference room.

After careful screening and organizing, Nancy gets me back on track. It’s quite clear why she’s been so successful all these years. Organization is her forte!

We pack for the next day’s taping.

And before you know it – it’s over! And I can’t wait to do it again!

Here’s your assignment this week:

Want to win a copy of Designer Handbags? Just post a comment to tell me which of the fabric choices, Group A, B, C or D, shown above, did Nancy select for the taping and you could be the winner. The winner will be announced December 7, 2011

Sandi Rice

Joanne

Darlene Jacolik

Kathy

MJE

9 years ago

Tricky question! I see some of Group C peeking out of the “organized” photo, but there is definately some of the cute green check from Group A in the tote getting ready for filming. And where did that adorable little blue print in the tote come from??

Helen Dyckson

Marge Jansonius

Beth Shelton

9 years ago

It looks like it could be group A because the purse already made in another picture is close to that material grouping. However, I would like to see group B made as it would be for a more “evening” use.

Mitzi

Chloe Fisher

9 years ago

Wish I could say all of the above, every group seems to be a winner, but I think C is the awnser. Can’t wait till the shows airs. I know I will be making a lot of handbags in the near future thanks to this new in the hoop technique.